Amanda Anisimova Battles Into US Open Third Round, Faces

Amanda Anisimova is through to the third round of the US Open 2026. The American tenth seed secured her spot with a three-set victory over Lilli Tagger, setting up a clash with Anastasia Potapova on Friday, September 5, at Flushing Meadows.

How did Anisimova reach the third round?

Anisimova started her US Open campaign strongly with a straightforward 6-1, 6-3 win against compatriot Ashlyn Krueger. Her second-round match against Lilli Tagger proved more challenging. After splitting the first two sets 6-3, 3-6, Anisimova found another gear. She dominated the decider to win 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 and book her place in the round of 32.

Who is her next opponent?

Anisimova will face 24th seed Anastasia Potapova. This will be their first ever main draw meeting. Potapova reached this stage with a hard-fought 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 win over Leolia Jeanjean. The match is scheduled for September 5 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The tournament offers a total prize pool of $108,000,000.

What sparked her recent success?

Anisimova's current form is rooted in a deliberate break she took from the sport in 2023. She stepped away for eight months to reset mentally and physically. "I was never that athlete who performed well from overtraining," Anisimova told the New York Post. She explained that finding a better balance between work and life was key to unlocking her potential. Since returning in 2024, she has enjoyed a successful run, crediting her off-court happiness for her on-court results.

Who does she consider her toughest opponent?

In a recent interview, Anisimova was asked to name her most difficult opponent. She made a clear choice, though the specific name was not detailed in the available source. This insight adds context to the mental and strategic challenges she prepares for at the highest level of the game.

What was the viral moment about?

A separate, lighter story involved a mystery drink Anisimova had during a tournament, which sparked online speculation about whether it was beer. The viral moment highlights the constant public scrutiny athletes face, even during their downtime.

• Anisimova plays Potapova in the US Open third round on September 5, 2026.
• Her comeback is built on an eight-month mental health break she took in 2023.
• She advanced with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 second-round win over Lilli Tagger.
• This is the first career meeting between Anisimova and Potapova.